Stefan Dennis withdraws from Strictly Come Dancing
Soap star Stefan Dennis has been forced to withdraw from Strictly Come Dancing.
Stefan Dennis has withdrawn from Strictly Come Dancing due to injury.
The 66-year-old actor - who is best known for playing Paul Robinson in Neighbours - has been forced to withdraw from the BBC show after tearing a calf muscle.
Stefan - who was partnered with Strictly professional Dianne Buswell - said in a statement: "This morning I woke up to the most disappointing day of the time in my Strictly journey.
"Just when I had finally gained the confidence to do well with my dancing in the comp and achieve more great dances along the way, I was told that on Saturday I had torn my calf so significantly that I am now forced to withdraw from the show.
"I can’t tell you how devastated I am to have to leave so prematurely especially, as there has been, and still is, so much love and support from everyone for both Dianne and myself.
"I owe both the Strictly family and Dianne a massive debt of gratitude for giving me the opportunity to fulfil my dream of being able to dance with my wife. (When my leg is better)."
Sarah James, the executive producer of BBC Studios, has also expressed her disappointment for Stefan.
She said: "We've adored having Stefan on Strictly Come Dancing, and are heartbroken that his Strictly journey - and his fantastic partnership with Dianne Buswell - has been cut short.
"It's been a joy to see him embrace the series with such enthusiasm and we really hope that, once better, he will keep dancing."
Stefan was forced to miss Movie Week due to illness, and he only resumed training last week.
The actor said in a clip before his return to the show: "Hi everyone, just want to say thank you very much for all your support and well wishes while I was away last week.
"We're back in the training room, aren't we, and if all goes well - which it will - I'm going to be back on the floor with the lovely Dianne this Saturday."
